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Health Counselling Addictions Counsellor

Addictions counsellors help individuals, families and communities identify and deal with addictions through treatment and prevention programs.

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  • Related School Subjects Community Health; Language Arts; and Science (Biology; and Chemistry)
  • Field of Study Social Sciences, Law and Religious Studies; and Social, Community and Protective Services
  • Duties

    In general, addictions counsellors:

    • work with clients from diverse cultures and lifestyles who have eating disorders or are addicted to alcohol, drugs, gambling, sex or tobacco
    • assess client strengths, problem areas, severity of dependence and readiness to change
    • develop client treatment plans that are based on research, clinical experience and client history
    • provide information about addiction issues and about available services and programs and make appropriate referrals where necessary
    • conduct information sessions and therapy groups as required
    • counsel affected individuals and family members through all stages of recovery using appropriate intervention strategies and treatment approaches
    • review, evaluate and document client progress
    • provide aftercare and follow-up as appropriate
    • develop public education, prevention and health promotion programs
    • work with organizations, institutions and communities to develop, implement and evaluate health and wellness programs.
  • Working Conditions
  • Personal
  • Education
  • Advancement
  • Salary

    According to the 2009 Alberta Wage and Salary Survey, Albertans in the Family, Marriage and Other Related Counsellors group earned from $14.54 to $44.51 an hour. The average wage was $27.81 an hour.

    For more detailed information, see WAGEinfo.

  • Other Sources

    Post-secondary institution calendars and websites (see Educational Requirements above)

    EDinfo website: www.alis.alberta.ca/edinfo

    Alberta Alcohol and Drug Abuse Commission (AADAC) website: www.aadac.com

All of the information provided to us is in partnership with ALIS. If there are any discrepancies between the Health Warriors Network website and the ALIS website, the correct information will be found on the ALIS website. We do not take responsibility for the inaccuracy of information and it is the responsibility of those researching their career to do so thoroughly and completely.